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2025 Peugeot 408 Australian Test Drive Review

2025 Peugeot 408 Australian Test Drive Review
By Jeff Gibbs
The 2025 Peugeot 408 brings a fresh take to the Australian crossover market, blending the aesthetics of a coupe-SUV with the practicality of a traditional SUV. As a stylish and premium offering, the 408 stands out with its distinctive design, innovative tech, and European flair. Its focus on delivering a dynamic driving experience and excellent efficiency caters to Australian buyers who appreciate sophistication with practicality.
Exterior Design
The 2025 Peugeot 408 is a head-turner with its unique blend of coupe and SUV styling:
- Striking Front Fascia: Peugeot’s signature frameless grille, sleek LED headlights, and claw-shaped daytime running lights give the 408 a bold and aggressive look.
- Coupe-SUV Silhouette: The sloping roofline and sharp lines exude athleticism without compromising rear headroom or practicality.
- Rear Styling: Eye-catching LED taillights with Peugeot’s claw motif and a sporty rear bumper enhance the car’s appeal.
- Wheel Options: Available 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels complete the sophisticated look.
The 408’s design is particularly well-suited for urban settings and stylish enough for Australia’s coastal and rural regions.
Interior Design and Comfort
Stepping inside the Peugeot 408, the cabin delivers a blend of premium materials and forward-thinking design:
- i-Cockpit Layout: The signature compact steering wheel and elevated 3D digital instrument cluster provide a futuristic and ergonomic driving experience.
- Premium Materials: High-quality finishes, soft-touch surfaces, and leather upholstery in higher trims create a luxurious environment.
- Spacious Cabin: Despite its coupe-like shape, rear passengers enjoy ample headroom and legroom, thanks to clever packaging.
- Cargo Space: The boot offers 536 litres of space, expandable to over 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded, making it practical for Australian road trips.
Technology
Peugeot equips the 408 with advanced tech to enhance comfort, connectivity, and safety:
- Infotainment System: A 10-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless) is standard. The user interface is responsive and easy to navigate.
- Customisable Controls: The touchscreen integrates customisable “i-Toggles,” providing shortcuts for frequently used functions.
- Sound System: A premium Focal sound system is available on higher trims for an immersive audio experience.
- Ambient Lighting: Multi-colour LED ambient lighting enhances the cabin’s premium feel.
- Driver Assistance: Advanced systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and semi-autonomous driving features are included.
Performance
Australian drivers will appreciate the 408’s balance of comfort and dynamism:
- New Powertrain: The plug-in hybrid system has been replaced by a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol three-cylinder engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. While the combined output drops from 165kW/360Nm to 100kW/230Nm, the mild-hybrid system provides 15.6kW/51Nm of assistance and can operate on electric power alone, unlike most mild hybrids.
- Efficiency and Emissions: Peugeot claims fuel consumption of 4.7L/100km and CO2 emissions of 107g/km, enhancing efficiency.
- Transmission Update: The eight-speed automatic has been swapped for a six-speed dual-clutch automatic for smoother operation.
- Fuel Economy: Expect fuel consumption figures of around 6.5 L/100 km for petrol models and 2.0 L/100 km for the PHEV when used efficiently.
- Ride and Handling: Peugeot’s suspension setup ensures a plush ride, while its lightweight steering and compact wheel make navigating city streets effortless. On highways, the 408 feels composed and planted.
Australian-Specific Performance
The 408 performs admirably on Australia’s diverse roads:
- Urban Roads: The small steering wheel and tight turning radius make it easy to manoeuvre in crowded cityscapes.
- Highway Driving: Excellent insulation and supportive seats ensure comfort on long drives.
- Rural and Coastal Roads: The suspension absorbs bumps well, though the coupe-like stance means it’s not designed for serious off-roading.
Safety
Peugeot prioritises safety in the 408, meeting ANCAP’s five-star rating criteria:
- Standard Features:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Advanced Features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Lane Positioning Assist
- 360-Degree Camera
- Night Vision: Available on top trims, this system uses infrared sensors to detect pedestrians and animals in low-visibility conditions—a rare feature in its class.
Driving Experience
The 2025 Peugeot 408 shines as a daily driver and a long-distance cruiser:
- Quiet Cabin: Enhanced insulation keeps road noise at bay, creating a serene atmosphere.
- Sporty Edge: The compact steering wheel and precise handling make it more engaging than many competitors.
- Efficiency: Hybrid models stand out for their low running costs and electric-only range, perfect for reducing fuel bills.
Pricing and Trims in Australia
The Peugeot 408 is available in several trims to cater to different needs and budgets:
- Allure: Starting at around $50,000 AUD, this trim offers essential features like the i-Cockpit, wireless phone connectivity, and advanced safety.
- GT: Priced at approximately $60,000 AUD, the GT adds premium finishes, larger wheels, and additional tech features.
- PHEV: The plug-in hybrid variant starts at $65,000 AUD, combining eco-friendly performance with high-end amenities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Distinctive, stylish design that stands out in the crossover segment.
- Premium interior with innovative technology.
- Efficient hybrid option with a good electric-only range.
- Comfortable ride and engaging handling.
- Ample cargo space despite the coupe-like roofline.
Cons:
- Limited off-road capability compared to traditional SUVs.
- Higher price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Touchscreen-reliant controls may not suit all preferences.
Conclusion
The 2025 Peugeot 408 offers Australian drivers a unique blend of style, comfort, and efficiency. Its coupe-inspired design and luxurious interior cater to those seeking sophistication, while its dynamic handling and hybrid options make it practical for everyday use. While it may not suit hardcore off-roaders, the 408 is an excellent choice for urban professionals, small families, and anyone looking for a premium European crossover with a touch of flair.
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